Things To Do
in Ibaraki
Ibaraki is a prefecture located in the Kanto region of Japan, known for its agricultural production. The region is famous for its high-quality rice, natto (fermented soybeans), and melons. Ibaraki is also home to Mount Tsukuba, a popular hiking destination with stunning views.
Visitors can enjoy various attractions such as Hitachi Seaside Park, Kairakuen Garden, and Kashima Shrine.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the famous Hitachi Seaside Park, known for its seasonal flowers blooming vibrantly. Take a leisurely stroll through the park, enjoying the stunning views of the Flower Hills.
After lunch, head to the Kairakuen Garden, one of Japan’s three great gardens, famous for its plum blossoms. Spend time exploring the serene pathways and the historic tea house.
Wrap up your day with dinner at a local izakaya, where you can savor traditional Ibaraki cuisine. Enjoy the friendly atmosphere and perhaps try some craft beer brewed in the region.
Visit Mito Castle ruins in the morning, a site rich with history and surrounded by beautiful cherry blossoms in spring. There's a small museum where you can learn about the castle's past.
Explore the nearby Kairakuen Park after lunch, especially famous for its many plum trees. This park is a great location for photography and a peaceful picnic.
Dine at a traditional kaiseki restaurant in Mito and enjoy a multi-course meal showcasing seasonal ingredients. The elegant presentation reflects the craftsmanship of Japanese cuisine.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery, including mountains and coastline.
- Rich cultural heritage with various festivals and traditions.
- Affordable cost of living compared to bigger Japanese cities.
- Accessibility to Tokyo and major transport links.
- Delicious local cuisine, particularly seafood and Tsukuba's agricultural products.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors compared to major cities.
- Less vibrant nightlife and entertainment options than Tokyo or Osaka.
- Public transportation may not be as frequent in rural areas.
- Occasional natural disasters such as earthquakes or typhoons.
- Language barrier can be a challenge for non-Japanese speakers.
Best Activities in Ibaraki
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy the beautiful flower fields, cycling, and picnicking.
Hike the trails to enjoy the panoramic views from the summit.
Catch a live soccer match or take a stadium tour.
Tours
Uncover the best of Ibaraki with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Ibaraki
Visit one of these nice places.
Expansive flower gardens with beautiful seasonal blooms and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean
A popular mountain offering panoramic views of the Kanto Plain and surrounding landscapes
One of Japan's most beautiful waterfalls, providing picturesque photo opportunities
Food in Ibaraki
Ibaraki Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty soup made with root vegetables, tofu, and shiitake mushrooms, flavored with miso. Can be found in most traditional Japanese restaurants and izakayas throughout Ibaraki.
Must-Try!
Fermented soybeans unique to Mito, often served with rice and garnishes. Available at local markets and specialty shops in Mito city.
A rice bowl dish featuring thinly sliced beef cooked in a sweet and savory sauce, served with rice. Best enjoyed at local eateries and izakayas in Hitachi city.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Ibaraki better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively market offering an array of fresh seafood, including sashimi and sushi. Visitors can sample freshly prepared seafood dishes and snacks from various stalls.
A bustling market known for its fresh produce, local snacks, and street food such as yakisoba (stir-fried noodles) and takoyaki (octopus balls).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Ibaraki, it is important to show respect to elders by using polite language and gestures such as bowing.
It is customary to remove one's shoes before entering a home or certain traditional spaces in Ibaraki as a sign of respect and cleanliness.
When dining in Ibaraki, it is polite to wait for the host to start eating before beginning your meal, and to express gratitude for the food by saying 'itadakimasu' before eating and 'gochisosama deshita' after finishing.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Ibaraki with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Ibaraki
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Japan, including Ibaraki. It is generally not expected nor required in restaurants, hotels, or taxis. Service charges are often included in the bill, and providing a tip may even be considered rude in some cases.
In Ibaraki, Japan, cash is the most commonly used form of payment, and credit cards are widely accepted in larger establishments. Some smaller businesses may prefer cash, so it's always a good idea to have some yen on hand. Mobile payment options like Suica or Pasmo cards are also popular for public transportation and convenience stores.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Ibaraki.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Ibaraki to see beautiful cherry blossoms and tulips in bloom.
Great time for outdoor activities and to visit beaches along the coast.
Ideal for enjoying the vibrant fall foliage and participating in harvest festivals.
Perfect for experiencing winter illuminations and enjoying hot springs.
Ibaraki at Night
Hiking in Ibaraki
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A prominent mountain known for its scenic views and various hiking trails, suitable for both beginners and seasoned hikers.
A beautiful natural park offering a variety of trails amidst lush greenery, perfect for leisurely hikes and nature walks.
A serene park featuring walking paths through forests, ideal for a relaxing hike with family and friends.
A popular spot with coastal views, offering nearby hiking trails that allow you to explore the scenic seaside.
Home to one of the world's tallest bronze Buddha statues, with hiking paths around the area providing a mix of cultural and natural experiences.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Ibaraki through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Ibaraki by plane.
Located approximately 70 kilometers east of Ibaraki, Narita International Airport is one of the major international airports serving Tokyo and its surrounding regions, offering numerous international flights.
Located about 85 kilometers south of Ibaraki, Haneda Airport is one of the busiest airports in Japan, primarily serving domestic flights but also offering a significant number of international connections.
Situated approximately 200 kilometers west of Ibaraki, Chubu Centrair International Airport serves the Nagoya area and provides various international and domestic flight options.
Located around 400 kilometers west of Ibaraki, Kansai International Airport serves the Osaka area and is a major hub for international travel in the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic and demographic group in Ibaraki, consisting of the majority of the population.
Includes various nationalities such as Brazilian, Chinese, South Korean, and other expatriates.
Indigenous people of Japan, though their population is small and they are primarily located in Hokkaido, there may be some presence in Ibaraki.
Comprises a small number of immigrants and minorities from other regions and countries.
The Soul of Ibaraki
Discover the essence of Ibaraki through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is one of the most popular sports in Ibaraki, with numerous local teams and schools participating in competitions at various levels, including high school baseball tournaments.
Soccer has a strong following in Ibaraki, with teams like the J-League club Kashima Antlers attracting many fans and promoting youth participation in the sport.
Basketball is also widely played in Ibaraki, with various clubs and school teams taking part in local leagues and competitions.
Tennis enjoys popularity both recreationally and competitively, with many tennis clubs and facilities available for enthusiasts in the region.
Martial arts, including judo and karate, have a significant presence in Ibaraki, with numerous dojos and regular competitions being held.
Athletics is actively promoted in schools and local clubs, with events ranging from track and field to long-distance running.
Cycling is popular in Ibaraki, thanks to its beautiful landscapes and designated cycling routes, making it a favored activity for both locals and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ibaraki.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Japanese cuisine heavily features seafood and meat, many restaurants in Ibaraki offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes such as vegetable tempura, tofu-based meals, and rice bowls with pickled vegetables.
Travelers with gluten restrictions can opt for dishes like sashimi, grilled meats, and rice-based dishes. Additionally, some restaurants in urban centers offer gluten-free versions of popular dishes upon request.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Ibaraki with these cultural adventures.
